Music Therapy in home based settings: Relationship between clients with Cerebral Vascular Accident and their caretakers

Abstract

Cerebral Vascular Accident is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Most people who have suffered from a CVA are cared for at home by a caregiver who is usually a close relative or friend. The aim of this study was to explore the role that music therapy sessions could play in enhancing the relationship between individuals who have experienced a CVA and their primary caretakers in the home context. The study made use of a sample of three such dyads. The sessions took place in their home settings. Sessions included listening to and singing familiar songs, drumming, vocal and instrumental improvisation and movement. A total of 16 sessions were conducted. Videotaped recordings were made of each session and the last session from each dyad’s therapy process was transcribed verbatim. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis. The therapy process allowed them to explore difficulties and challenges in their relationships, there was enhanced communicating and relating, and there was an expressed desire for a return to the self that once was as well as a hope for the future.